Android Apps and Sites: Different Strokes for Different Folks

Android Apps and Sites: Different Strokes for Different Folks

In the mobile arena, the battle between apps and sites is one that seems as if it will never end. On one side of the divide, some developers believe the best way to exploit the features mobile devices is to have a native app. While on the other side of the argument, some contend that the flexibility of a site is a better way to deliver a product to the masses.

Unfortunately, try as we might, it’s unlikely there will ever be a clear winner in the apps vs. sites debate. However, in this article we’re going to make the case that there doesn’t need to be a winner. In fact, we’re calling for a truce and, moreover, an agreement that both platforms have their merits. Indeed, by applying the mantra “different strokes for different folks” to the debate, we’re essentially saying that apps and sites are great, it just depends on the audience you’re targeting.

First, let’s take a look at an industry where flexibility is crucial. According to Human Service Solutions’ Jason Summerfield, the best way to reach the largest possible audience is by developing a mobile site. Thanks to a combination of “immediacy”, “compatibility” and “upgradability”, sites are, in Summerfield’s opinion, perfect for companies that want a broad mobile solution.

One industry that requires all three of Summerfield’s perceived mobile site benefits is the online casino industry. VegasCasino is not only a new player on the block in the iGaming world, but it offers something its rivals don’t: Bitcoin betting. Unlike its peers, VegasCasino’s deposits, bets and withdrawals feature Bitcoin.

Naturally, being a relatively new technology, attracting a global audience to enjoy these games requires a mobile solution that’s a far reaching as possible. Because of this, VegasCasino doesn’t have an Android app but, instead, allows players to ante-up via a fully optimized mobile site. Indeed, after loading up their browser, a player can enjoy android blackjack as well as a plethora of alternative games, including Double Bonus poker, Desert Drag Slots and live roulette.

Another reason mobile sites are the perfect medium for online casinos is that they are updated on a regular basis. New games and offers are an integral part of the iGaming industry, so a platform that’s easily updatable is something operators want to be a part of.

While mobile sites are great for companies that need flexibility and generality, apps are more suited to those companies that want to create a more personalized experience. As outlined on VWO.com, apps allow users to set their preferences at the start and this, in turn, means they can be “served with customized content”.

This level of personalization then leads into other benefits such as push notifications and alerts, which is great for companies that want to keep their users constantly engaged and updated. For example, a social media platform like Facebook has become highly successful thanks to its notification system. The reason people go to Facebook is to see what their friends are doing. By having a native app, Facebook allows users to set up custom notifications so they can get an instant insight into what’s happening in the virtual world around them.

Additionally, Facebook’s messenger service now has its own app. The decision to separate the chat aspect of the platform for Android users was to make it easier for people to keep up with their conversations. On-screen notifications can now be turned off, on and even customized and that’s all thanks to the app. Indeed, if Facebook had simply relied on its mobile site, the chances are that it wouldn’t have been able to penetrate people’s lives in the same way and, therefore, never reached 1.7 billion active users.

So, as you can see, choosing between an Android site and an Android app is all about your goals. If we can all understand that neither side is right or wrong and that it’s all just a matter of preference, then maybe we can finally call time on this seemingly never-ending mobile war.